Craftsman 917.27581 User Manual

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Owner’s Manual

LAWN TRACTOR

18.5 HP, 42” Mower

Electric Start

6 Speed Transaxle

Model No.

917.27581

02494

This product has a low emission engine which operates differently from previously built engines. Before you start the engine, read and understand this Owner’s Manual.

IMPORTANT:

Read and follow all Safety Rules and Instructions before operating this equipment.

For answers to your questions about

this product, Call:

1-800-659-5917

Sears Craftsman Help Line

5 am - 5 pm, Mon - Sat

Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179 U.S.A.

Visit our Craftsman website:www.sears.com/craftsman

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Warranty .................................................	2
Safety Rules ...........................................	3
Product Speciﬁ cations ............................	6
Assembly/Pre-Operation ........................	8
Operation..............................................	11
Maintenance Schedule.........................	17

Maintenance.........................................	17
Service and Adjustments......................	21
Storage .................................................	27
Troubleshooting ....................................	28
Repair Parts..........................................	32
Sears Service .........................	Back Cover

WARRANTY

LIMITED WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN RIDING EQUIPMENT

For two (2) years from the date of purchase, if this Craftsman Riding Equipment is maintained, lubricated and tuned up according to the instructions in the owner’s manual, Sears will repair or replace free of charge any parts that are found to be defective in material or workmanship according to the guidelines of coverage listed below. Sears will also provide free labor for these applicable warranted parts for the two full years. During the ﬁ rst 30 days of purchase, there will be no charges to service the product at your home for issues covered by this warranty. (See exclusions below). For your convenience, IN HOME warranty service will still be available after the ﬁrst 30 days of purchase, but a trip charge will apply. This charge will be waived if the Craftsman product is dropped off at an authorized Sears location. For the nearest authorized Sears location, please call 1-800-4-MY-HOME®. This warranty applies only while this product is within the United States.

This Warranty does not cover:

•Expendable items which become worn during normal use, including but not limited to blades, spark plugs, air cleaners, belts, and oil ﬁlters.

Standard Maintenance Servicing, oil changes, or tune-ups

•Tire replacement or repair caused by punctures from outside objects, such as nails, thorns, stumps, or glass.

•Repairs necessary because of operator abuse, including but not limited to, damage caused by towing objects beyond the capability of the riding equipment, impacting objects that bend the frame or crankshaft, or over-speeding the engine.

•Repairs necessary because of operator negligence, including but not limited to, electrical and mechanical damage caused by improper storage, failure to use the proper grade and amount of engine oil, failure to keep the deck clear of ﬂ ammable debris, or failure to maintain the equipment according to the instructions contained in the owner’s manual.

•Engine (fuel system) cleaning or repairs caused by fuel determined to be contaminated or oxidized (stale). In general, fuel should be used within 30 days of its purchase date.

•Normal deterioration and wear of the exterior ﬁ nishes, or product label replacement.

•Riding equipment used for commercial or rental purposes.

LIMITED WARRANTY ON BATTERY

For ninety (90) days from date of purchase, if any battery included with this riding equipment proves defective in material or workmanship and our testing determines the battery will not hold a charge, Sears will replace the battery at no charge. During the ﬁrst 30 days of purchase, there will be no charges to replace the battery at your HOME. After the ﬁ rst 30 days, for your convenience, IN-HOME warranty service will still be avail-

able but a trip charge will apply. This charge will be waived if the Craftsman product is dropped off at an authorized Sears location. For the nearest authorized Sears location, please call 1-800-4-MY-HOME®.

This battery warranty applies only while this product is within the United States.

This warranty gives you speciﬁ c legal rights, and you may also have other rights, which vary, from state to state.

Sears, Roebuck and Co.,Dept.817WA, Hoffman Estates, IL 60179

SAFETY RULES

IMPORTANT: This cutting machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and throwing objects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in serious injury or death.

WARNING: In order to prevent accidental starting when setting up, transporting, adjusting or making repairs, always disconnect spark plug wire and place wire where it cannot contact spark plug.

WARNING: Do not coast down a hill in neutral, you may lose control of the tractor.

WARNING: Tow only the attachments that are recommended by and comply with speciﬁ cations of the manufacturer of your tractor. Use common sense when towing. Operate only at the lowest possible speed when on a slope. Too heavy of a load, while on a slope, is dangerous. Tires can lose traction with the ground and cause you to lose control of your tractor.

WARNING: Engine exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain vehicle components contain or emit chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm.

WARNING: Battery posts, terminals and related accessories contain lead and lead compounds, chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm.

Wash hands after handling.

I. GENERAL OPERATION

•Read, understand, and follow all instructions on the machine and in the manual before starting.

•Do not put hands or feet near rotating parts or under the machine. Keep clear of the discharge opening at all times.

•Only allow responsible adults, who are familiar with the instructions, to operate the machine.

•Clear the area of objects such as rocks, toys, wire, etc., which could be picked up and thrown by the blades.

•Be sure the area is clear of bystanders before operating. Stop machine if anyone enters the area.

•Never carry passengers.

•Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary. Always look down and behind before and while backing.

•Never direct discharged material toward anyone. Avoid discharging material against a wall or obstruction. Material may ricochet back toward the operator. Stop the blades when crossing gravel surfaces.

•Do not operate machine without the entire grass catcher, discharge guard, or other safety devices in place and working.

•Slow down before turning.

•Never leave a running machine unattended. Always turn off blades, set parking brake, stop engine, and remove keys before dismounting.

•Disengage blades when not mowing. Shut off engine and wait for all parts to come to a complete stop before cleaning the machine, removing the grass catcher, or unclogging the discharge guard.

•Operate machine only in daylight or good artiﬁ cial light.

•Do not operate the machine while under the inﬂ uence of alcohol or drugs.

•Watch for trafﬁ c when operating near or crossing roadways.

•Use extra care when loading or unloading the machine into a trailer or truck.

•Always wear eye protection when operating machine.

•Data indicates that operators, age 60 years and above, are involved in a large percentage of riding mower-re- lated injuries. These operators should evaluate their ability to operate the riding mower safely enough to protect themselves and others from serious injury.

•Follow the manufacturer’s recommendation for wheel weights or counterweights.

•Keep machine free of grass , leaves or other debris build-up which can touch hot exhaust / engine parts and burn.

Do not allow the mower deck to plow leaves or other debris which can cause build-up to occur. Clean any oil or fuel spillage before operating or storing the machine. Allow machine to cool before storage.

SAFETY RULES

II. SLOPE OPERATION

Slopes are a major factor related to loss of control and tip-over accidents, which can result in severe injury or death. Operation on all slopes requires extra caution. If you cannot back up the slope or if you feel uneasy on it, do not mow it.

•Mow up and down slopes, not across.

•Watch for holes, ruts, bumps, rocks, or other hidden objects. Uneven terrain could overturn the machine. Tall grass can hide obstacles.

•Choose a low ground speed so that you will not have to stop or shift while on the slope.

•Do not mow on wet grass. Tires may lose traction.

Always keep the machine in gear when going down slopes. Do not shift to neutral and coast downhill.

•Avoid starting, stopping, or turning on a slope. If the tires lose traction, disengage the blades and proceed slowly straight down the slope.

•Keep all movement on the slopes slow and gradual. Do not make sudden changes in speed or direction, which could cause the machine to roll over.

•Use extra care while operating machine with grass catchers or other attachments; they can affect the stability of the machine. Do no use on steep slopes.

•Do not try to stabilize the machine by putting your foot on the ground.

•Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches, or embankments. The machine could suddenly roll over if a wheel is over the edge or if the edge caves in.

III. CHILDREN

Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to the presence of children. Children are often attracted to the machine and the mowing activity. Never assume that children will remain where you last saw them.

•Keep children out of the mowing area and in the watchful care of a responsible adult other than the operator.

•Be alert and turn machine off if a child enters the area.

•Before and while backing, look behind and down for small children.

•Never carry children, even with the blades shut off. They may fall off and be seriously injured or interfere with safe machine operation. Children who have been given rides in the past may suddenly appear in the mowing area for another ride and be run over or backed over by the machine.

•Never allow children to operate the machine.

•Use extra care when approaching blind corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects that may block your view of a child.

IV. TOWING

•Tow only with a machine that has a hitch designed for towing. Do not attach towed equipment except at the hitch point.

•Follow the manufacturer’s recommendation for weight limits for towed equipment and towing on slopes.

•Never allow children or others in or on towed equipment.

•On slopes, the weight of the towed equipment may cause loss of traction and loss of control.

•Travel slowly and allow extra distance to stop.

V. SERVICE

SAFE HANDLING OF GASOLINE

To avoid personal injury or property damage, use extreme care in handling gasoline. Gasoline is extremely ﬂ ammable and the vapors are explosive.

•Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and other sources of ignition.

•Use only approved gasoline container.

•Never remove gas cap or add fuel with the engine running. Allow engine to cool before refueling.

•Never fuel the machine indoors.

•Never store the machine or fuel container where there is an open ﬂ ame, spark, or pilot light such as on a water heater or other appliances.

•Never ﬁ ll containers inside a vehicle or on a truck or trailer bed with plastic liner. Always place containers on the ground away from your vehicle when ﬁ lling.

SAFETY RULES

•Remove gas-powered equipment from the truck or trailer and refuel it on the ground. If this is not possible, then refuel such equipment with a portable container, rather than from a gasoline dispenser nozzle.

•Keep the nozzle in contact with the rim of the fuel tank or container opening at all times until fueling is complete. Do not use a nozzle lock-open device.

•If fuel is spilled on clothing, change clothing immediately.

•Never overﬁ ll fuel tank. Replace gas cap and tighten securely.

GENERAL SERVICE

•Never operate machine in a closed are.

•Keep all nuts and bolts tight to be sure the equipment is in safe working condition.

•Never tamper with safety devices. Check their proper operation regularly.

•Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or other debris build-up. Clean oil or fuel spillage and remove any fuel-soaked debris. Allow machine to cool before storing.

•If you strike a foreign object, stop and inspect the machine. Repair, if necessary, before restarting.

•Never make any adjustments or repairs with the engine running.

•Check grass catcher components and the discharge guard frequently and replace with manufacturer’s recommended parts, when necessary.

•Mower blades are sharp. Wrap the blade or wear gloves, and use extra caution when servicing them.

•Check brake operation frequently. Adjust and service as required.

•Maintain or replace safety and instruction labels, as necessary.

•Be sure the area is clear of bystanders before operating. Stop machine if anyone enters the area.

•Never carry passengers.

•Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary. Always look down and behind before and while backing.

•Keep children out of the mowing area and in the watchful care of a responsible adult other than the operator.

•Be alert and turn machine off if a child enters the area.

•Before and while backing, look behind and down for small children.

•Mow up and down slopes (15° Max), not across.

•Choose a low ground speed so that you will not have to stop or shift while on the slope.

•Avoid starting, stopping, or turning on a slope. If the tires lose traction, disengage the blades and proceed slowly straight down the slope.

•If machine stops while going uphill, disengage blades, shift into reverse and back down slowly.

•Do not turn on slopes unless necessary, and then, turn slowly and gradually downhill, if possible.

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

Gasoline	3.5
Capacity and	Unleaded
Type:	Regular

Oil Type	SAE 30 (above 32°F)
(API-SG-SL):	SAE 5W-30(below 32°F)

Oil Capacity:	W/Filter:	3.5 Pints
	W/O Filter:	3.0 Pints

Spark Plug:	Champion RC12YC
(Gap: .030")

Ground Speed	Forward:
(MPH):	1st	1.2
	2nd	1.5
	3rd	2.4
	4th	3.5
	5th	4.8
	6th	5.3
	Reverse:	1.5

Tire Pressure:	Front:	14 PSI
	Rear:	10 PSI

Charging System: 3 Amps Battery
	5 Amps Headlights

Battery:	Amp/Hr:	28
	Min. CCA:	230
	Case Size:	U1R

Blade Bolt Torque: 27-35 Ft. Lbs.

CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase of a new tractor. It has been designed, engineered and manufactured to give you the best possible dependability and performance.

Should you experience any problem you cannot easily remedy, please contact a Sears or other qualiﬁ ed service center. We have competent, well-trained technicians and the proper tools to service or repair this tractor.

Please read and retain this manual. The instructions will enable you to assemble and maintain your tractor properly. Always observe the “SAFETY RULES”.

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES

•Read and observe the safety rules.

•Follow a regular schedule in maintaining, caring for and using your tractor.

•Follow the instructions under “Maintenance” and “Storage” sections of this owner’s manual.

WARNING: This tractor is equipped with an internal combustion engine and should not be used on or near any unimproved forest-covered, brush-covered or grass-covered land unless the engine’s exhaust system is equipped with a spark arrester meeting applicable local or state

laws (if any). If a spark arrester is used, it should be maintained in effective working order by the operator.

In the state of California the above is required by law (Section 4442 of the California Public Resources Code). Other states may have similar laws. Federal laws apply on federal lands. A spark arrester for the mufﬂ er is available through your nearest Sears service center (See REPAIR PARTS section of this manual).

REPAIR PROTECTION AGREEMENTS

Congratulations on making a smart purchase.Your new Craftsman® product is designed and manufactured for years of dependable operation. But like all products, it may require repair from time to time. That’s when having a Repair Protection Agreement can save you money and aggravation.

Purchase a Repair Protection Agreement now and protect yourself from unexpected hassle and expense.

Here’s what’s included in the Agreement:

•Expert service by our 12,000 profesional repair specialists.

•Unlimited service and no charge for parts and labor on all covered repairs.

•Product replacement if your covered product can’t be ﬁ xed.

•Discount of 10% from regular price of service and service-related parts not covered by the agreement; also, 10% off regular price of preventive maintenance check.

•Fast help by phone – phone support from a Sears technician on products requiring in-home repair, plus convenient repair scheduling.

Once you purchase the Agreement, a simple phone call is all that it takes for you to schedule service. You can call anytime day or night, or schedule a service appointment online.

Sears has over 12,000 professional repair specialists, who have access to over 4.5 million quality parts and accessories. That’s the kind of professionalism you can count on to help prolong the life of your new purchase for years to come. Purchase your Repair Protection Agreement today!

Some limitations and exclusions apply. For prices and additional information call 1-800-827-6655.

SEARS INSTALLATION SERVICE

For Sears professional installation of home appliances, garage door openers, water heaters, and other major home items, in the U.S.A. call 1-800-4-MY-HOME®

UNASSEMBLED PARTS

Steering	Steering Wheel
Wheel Insert

		(1) Large Flat Washer
		Steering
	Steering	Wheel Adapter
	Steering
Steering	Extension
Boot	Shaft
		(1) 5/16 Lock Washer
(1) Hex Bolt
5/16-18 x 4
	Seat

(1) Washer

17/32 x 1-3/16 x 12 Gauge

(1) Knob

(1) Oil Drain Tube

For Future Use

Keys

Slope Sheet

ASSEMBLY/PRE-OPERATION

Your new tractor has been assembled at the factory with the exception of those parts left unassembled for shipping purposes. To ensure safe and proper operation of your tractor all parts and hardware you assemble must be tightened securely. Use the correct tools as necessary to insure proper tightness.

TOOLS REQUIRED FOR ASSEMBLY

A socket wrench set will make assembly easier. Standard wrench sizes you need are listed below.

(1)	3/4" wrench	(1)	Pliers
(1)	1/2" wrench	(1)	Utility knife
(1)	Tire pressure	gauge

When right or left hand is mentioned in this manual, it means when you are in the operating position (seated behind the steering wheel).

TO REMOVE TRACTOR FROM CARTON

UNPACK CARTON

1.Remove all accessible loose parts and parts boxes from carton.

2.Cut along dotted lines on all four panels of carton. Remove end panels and lay side panels ﬂ at.

3.Check for any additional loose parts or cartons and remove.

BEFORE REMOVING TRACTOR FROM SKID

ATTACH STEERING WHEEL

ASSEMBLE EXTENSION SHAFT AND BOOT

1.Slide extension shaft onto lower steering shaft.

2.Place tabs of steering boot over tab slots in dash and push down to secure.

INSTALL STEERING WHEEL

3.Position front wheels of the tractor so they are pointing straight forward.

4.Remove steering wheel adapter from steering wheel and slide adapter onto steering shaft extension.

5.Position steering wheel so cross bars are horizontal (left to right) and slide inside boot and onto adapter.

6.Assemble large ﬂat washer, 5/16 lock washer, 5/16 hex bolt and tighten securely.

7.Snap steering wheel insert into center of steering wheel.

8.Remove protective materials from tractor hood and grill.

Insert

5/16 Hex Bolt

5/16 Lock Washer

	Large Flat
	Washer
Steering	Steering
Wheel	Boot
	Tabs

Adapter

Extension

Shaft

Lower

Steering

Shaft

028	23	Tab
028		Slots
		Slots

IMPORTANT: Check for and remove any staples in skid that may puncture tires where tractor is to roll off skid.

INSTALL SEAT

Adjust seat before tightening adjustment knob.

1.Remove adjustment knob and ﬂ at washer securing seat to cardboard packing and set aside for assembly of seat to tractor.

2.Pivot seat upward and remove from the cardboard packing. Remove the cardboard packing and discard.

3.Place seat on seat pan so head of shoulder bolt is positioned over large slotted hole in pan.

4.Push down on seat to engage shoulder bolt in slot and pull seat towards rear of tractor.

5.Pivot seat and pan forward and assemble adjustment knob and ﬂ at washer loosely. Do not tighten.

6.Lower seat into operating position and sit in seat.

7.Slide seat until a comfortable position is reached which allows you to press clutch/brake pedal all the way down.

8.Get off seat without moving its adjusted position.

9.Raise seat and tighten adjustment knob securely.

Seat

Seat Pan

	Shoulder
66	Bolt

Flat Washer

02464

Adjustment Knob

CHECK BATTERY

1. Lift hood to raised position.

NOTE: If this battery is put into service after month and year indicated on label (label located between terminals) charge battery for minimum of one hour at 6-10 amps. (See "BATTERY" in Maintenance section of this manual for charging instructions).

Label

02173

NOTE: You may now roll or drive your tractor off the skid. Follow the appropriate instruction below to remove the tractor from the skid.

TO ROLL TRACTOR OFF SKID (See Operation section for location and function of controls)

1.Press lift lever plunger and raise attachment lift lever to its highest position.

2.Release parking brake by depressing clutch/brake pedal.

3.Place gearshift lever in neutral (N) position.

4.Roll tractor forward off skid.

5.Remove banding holding deﬂ ector shield up against tractor.

TO DRIVE TRACTOR OFF SKID (See Operation section for location and function of controls)

WARNING: Before starting, read, understand and follow all instructions in the Operation section of this manual. Be sure tractor is in a well-ventilated area. Be sure the area in front of tractor is clear of other people and objects.

1.Be sure all the above assembly steps have been completed.

2.Check engine oil level and ﬁ ll fuel tank with gasoline.

3.Sit on seat in operating position, depress clutch/brake pedal and set the parking brake.

4.Place gear shift lever in neutral (N) position.

5.Press lift lever plunger and raise attachment lift lever to its highest position.

6.Start the engine. After engine has started, move throttle control to idle position.

7.Depress clutch/brake pedal into full "BRAKE" position and hold. Move gearshift lever to 1st gear.

8.Slowly release clutch/brake pedal and slowly drive tractor off skid.

9.Apply brake to stop tractor, set parking brake and place gearshift lever in neutral position.

10.Turn ignition key to "STOP" position. Continue with the instructions that follow.

CHECK TIRE PRESSURE

The tires on your tractor were overin-

ﬂ ated at the factory for shipping purposes. Correct tire pressure is important for best cutting performance.

•Reduce tire pressure to PSI shown in “PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS” section of this manual.

CHECK DECK LEVELNESS

For best cutting results, mower housing should be properly leveled. See “TO

LEVEL MOWER HOUSING” in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual.

CHECK FOR PROPER POSITION OF ALL BELTS

See the ﬁ gures that are shown for replacing motion and mower blade drive belts in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual. Verify that the belts are routed correctly.

CHECK BRAKE SYSTEM

After you learn how to operate your tractor, check to see that the brake is properly adjusted. See “TO ADJUST BRAKE” in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual.

CHECKLIST

Before you operate and enjoy your new tractor, we wish to assure that you receive the best performance and satisfaction from this Quality Product.

Please review the following checklist:

All assembly instructions have been completed.

No remaining loose parts in carton.

Battery is properly prepared and charged. (Minimum 1 hour at 6 amps).

Seat is adjusted comfortably and tightened securely.

All tires are properly inﬂ ated. (For shipping purposes, the tires were overin-

ﬂ ated at the factory).

Be sure mower deck is properly leveled side-to-side/front-to-rear for best cutting results. (Tires must be properly inﬂ ated for leveling).

Check mower and drive belts. Be sure they are routed properly around pulleys and inside all belt keepers.

Check wiring. See that all connections are still secure and wires are properly

clamped.

While learning how to use your tractor, pay extra attention to the following important items:

Engine oil is at proper level.

Fuel tank is ﬁ lled with fresh, clean, regular unleaded gasoline.

Become familiar with all controls - their location and function. Operate them before you start the engine.

Be sure brake system is in safe operating condition.

Be sure Operator Presence System and Reverse Operation System (ROS) are working properly (See the Operation and Maintenance sections in this manual).

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